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jerzwriter · 2 years ago

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The End of the World (1/2)

Book: Wake the Dead (prequel)

Featuring: Eli Sipes, David Sipes

OCs: Florence (mother), James (father)

Rating: Series - Mature / Part 1 - Teen

Category: Angst

Summary: The Sipes Family live in a world where they are constantly aware of their mortality, but on some days, they feel it more than others. In Part One, the family shares a poignant morning together as they head off to their days.

Words: 1,668

A/N: This two-part series will cover "that day" in Eli's life. If you've read WTD, you'll know exactly what "that day" is. This part is not terribly angsty, though there is foreboding. The second part will be where most of the pain is delivered without the benefit of anesthesia. Still, I hope you enjoy it if you're a masochist like me. Participating in @choicesjunechallenge , summer, rain, love.

The cover artwork is by the amazingly talented @rosefuckinggenius. It was originally created to represent the artwork Zoe gifts Eli in Comfort & Joy. Part 2 will have another one of her commissions that I have been so anxious to share with you!

Wake the Dead Masterlist My Complete Masterlist Part 2

Eli wrapped a thick cord of twine around the post… two… three times… before securely tying a knot to hold it in place. Rising to his feet, he dusted himself off as he inspected his handiwork. It wasn’t ideal, but it would have to do for now. It was late September, and the sun was beginning to set earlier. With nightfall imminent, they needed to get inside.

Wiping the sweat from his brow, he turned toward their cabin in the center of the clearing and chuckled. For a couple that was so devoted to each other, his parents sure liked to squabble. He considered staying put to enjoy the peace and quiet, but the desperation on his younger brother’s face lured him over. Eli had found his parent’s bickering amusing from the time he was a child, but David… he was a sensitive soul, and even knowing they did it in jest, it could cause him discomfort. It was time for big brother to come in for the save.

“Are you two trying to draw the attention of every drone in the area with your arguing?” Eli teased as he approached.

“We’re not arguing!” His mother, Florence, retorted with a playful punch to her eldest’s arm. “We’re having a spirited debate over who’s right… and after all these years, you would think your father would know that it is usually me!”

“Really?” James grimaced. “Do you really want me to list all the times you were wrong?”

Florence crossed her arms in front of her chest defiantly and narrowed her eyes in defiance. “James Elijah Sipes. Is this really the hill you want to die on?” she asked.

Unable to keep the ruse up any longer, her husband broke into laughter. “Absolutely not,” he grinned, pulling her into his arms. “Absolutely not!”

“Good,” she sang smugly, “then admit I’m right!”

“Guys, what is in question? Maybe I’ll cast the deciding vote. I am of age, after all.”

“It’s the damn roof!” James grunted.

“We know it’s needed repair for a while,” Eli shrugged.

“Yeah, but it’s in bad shape, and your father’s arthritis is screaming that bad weather is coming.”

“You know my arthritis is never wrong,” James injected. “Between that and the grey clouds today, we have to do it tomorrow. It won’t make it through another deluge.”

“But tomorrow is hunting day….” David stepped in. “And we’re low on food. See the dilemma?”

“And if your father’s right about the weather, we won’t be unable to hunt for a few days.”

“So? We split up,” Eli replied. “Problem solved.”

“Thank you!” his Dad rejoiced.

“Not so fast!” his mother stated. “The problem is, the roof is a three-person job. There’s no way for two of us to repair it safely.”

“Right. So you, Dad, and David fix the roof, and I’ll hunt.”

James raised his hands in victory, a proud look on his face, but Florence scowled.

“What did I tell you?” his father grinned.

“Eli…” Florence stalled. “I just don’t think it’s safe for you to go alone. I know you’ve done it before, but the drones have been very active lately, and I’d feel better if one of us was with you.”

Eli attempted to allay his mother's fears. “Like you said, I’ve done it before… plenty of times. We’ll get an early start, and you know I’m careful.”

“Not to mention he’s the most skilled marksman I’ve ever seen,” James added.

“Being a skilled marksman won’t help him if he’s outnumbered! Or if they attack from behind.”

“Mom,” Eli grinned as he pulled her into a hug. “I’m twenty-five years old…”

“Yeah,” Florance argued. “Plenty of twenty-five-year-olds have made delicious afternoon snacks for drones, dear. They really don’t care how old you are.”

“Mom,” David spoke up. “It’s not like we really have a choice.”

“Which is what I was saying,” James jumped in. “If we don’t patch that roof up, we’ll all be drone diner. So….”

“Fine!” Florence answered contemptuously. “We’ll do it your way, but I don’t have to like it.”

~~~~~

After sharing breakfast together the following day, David and James gathered supplies as Eli inspected his bow and arrows on the front porch. Florence approached him from behind and sat at his side.

“You see!” She said. “If I was a zombie, I’d be nibbling your arm by now. You didn’t even hear me coming.”

“I heard you just fine,” Eli insisted. “But I know the sound of your footsteps, Ma. I know the sound of your breathing. I had no reason to shoot you.”

“You’re such a wise ass,” she smirked. “Just like your father.”

“Well, I’ll take that as a compliment,” he answered with pride.

“As well you should.” Florence lifted her hand to Eli’s chin and turned it in her direction. “I may not say this as often as I should… but I am so proud of you, Eli. Growing up in this world hasn’t been easy, and that’s putting it mildly. But the man you’ve grown up to be….”

“Ma,” Eli blushed.

“No, Ma. I’m allowed to gush over my son if I see fit, and I do.”

“I know,” he said with a kiss to her forehead. “But Mom, I promise I will come back today.”

“I know,” she swallowed, voice cracking with emotion. “I know you will… just… please be careful… and … know how much I love you.”

“I do, and I love you, too,” Eli said with a hug.

Florence wiped a tear from her eye as they ended their embrace, and Eli was growing more concerned.

“Mom. Are you OK?”

No. She thought. Even James, Mr. Practicality himself, had come to respect her intuition. She wasn’t a mind reader, nor could she see the future, but when Florence Sipes had a bad feeling… she was usually proven right. The family had survived so much in the nearly two decades since the world as they once knew it ceased to exist… or the world she and James knew ceased to exist. The sad reality was her sons lived longer in this world than in the one before. She how blessed they were… most families didn’t even survive the initial days of this nightmare, and here they were… but she knew luck couldn’t be on their side forever. And while she was a strong woman who could withstand a lot, her son heading out and not coming back home… she wasn’t sure she could survive that.

“Mom?” He repeated.

“Yes,” she lied. “I’m fine, son. Really. Just promise… promise you’ll be careful.”

“Always.”

Eli began to walk off, but something stopped him in his tracks. He walked back to his mother, sincerity in his eyes, as he took her hand.

“Mom.. you know if… when the day comes… we’ll have to be strong. None of us will be here forever.”

“Oh, are you the parent now?” she chuckled, trying to control the emotions that were overtaking her. She took a deep breath and steeled herself. After all, her intuition wasn’t always right, and they hadn’t survived eighteen years by being cowards. Even if today ended up being a tragic day, this was not the behavior she wished to model for her son. “I know,” she said confidently. “We’re Sipes. They don’t make them any stronger than us.”

“Got that right!”

“Promise me, Eli… promise me the same in return. When the day comes that I’m no longer here, you’ll go on. You’ll find the reason you are still alive because, after all this time, I know there is a reason. So promise me… please?”

“Ma, I….”

“Eli! I promise to be strong… I want you to do the same.”

“I promise, Mom,” he swallowed. “You have my word.”

“Good,” she smiled, holding him close to conceal her face distorting as she held back her tears. “Now go… the sooner you get out of here, the sooner you get home!”

James and David turned the corner, the former's eyes nearly rolling to the back of his head.

“For the love of God, Flor. Are you trying to frighten the boy?”

“As if I could frighten Eli Sipes,” she smiled.

“We were just talking, Dad. And saying… I love you.”

“Well… there can never be too much of that,” James grinned. “I love you, too, son.”

“And I love you, Pops.”

“Am I the only one not getting love here today?” David teased.

“Of course you’re getting love,” Florence said, mussing up David’s hair.

“Group hug!” David yelled.

“Oh… no…” “No, no, no!” Eli and James protested, but they were no match for Florence and David. James and Eli may have been the strongest on the outside, but nothing is stronger than the resolve of those who are strong at heart. And for that, Florence and David knew no match.

They laughed as they stood there, limbs tangled together in a messy heap. They took in every second and seemed to be in no rush to part. It was James who finally got things moving along.

“All right, all right, all right! Enough of this mush fest. Let’s save it for Christmas!”

“That’s when you’ll appear as Scrooge!” Florence teased.

“I’m out of here,” Eli smiled, looking at David. “Try to keep them under control.”

“And don’t you come back with some squirrel!” James mocked. “Daddy wants to make you all a good venison stew.”

“I’ll see what I can do,” he nodded.

As he walked away, the sun began to break through the clouds, shining brighter than it had in days. As its rays warmed him, Eli couldn’t help but smile. He could hear his parents in the distance, already bickering about the best approach to patching the roof, and he could just see David’s face as he tried to move them along in their task. Yes, the world had stolen so much from the Sipes, but they had each other, and Eli knew… that made them the luckiest people alive.

@choicesficwriterscreations

Other tags in reblog.

Part 2

#choices fanfic #playchoices #choices the stories you play #wake the dead #wake the dead choices #playchoices fanfic #eli sipes

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thearchertheprey · 2 years ago

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HELLO HI i love calem. can you share your thoughts

oh my goodness please ive been waiting for the opportunity. thank you.

this is your neighbor, calem leblanc-balbir. he's a fairy-type specialist who works as diantha's personal assistant. he's quite the renaissance man -- manager, artist, poet, musician, linguist, historian. and he's continuing the 2headlightshine trademark of main characters who arent protagonists.

calem leblanc is 16 when you meet him. he's kinda vain and full of himself and a jerk and he makes fun of your mom for rhyhorn racing. but he's a good friend beneath all the glitz and glamour. he's a loyal young man. a perceptive young man, a little too aware of your gruff persona. a painfully selfless young man. this is his blessing and his curse.

you are 16 when the ultimate weapon blossoms from geosenge town, pulsing with a core powered by death itself. you are the hero of this story, and they send you down beneath the earth on a funeral procession, with your jacket tied around your shoulders like burial robes. you know you are going to die. the adults who sent you down there know you are going to die. the man who is firing the weapon knows you are both going to die.

your neighbor refuses to accept that you will die.

calem leblanc steals the maps of the man who is firing the weapon, and he finds the Tree of Life, imprisoned beneath the earth to prevent its interference with the ultimate weapon.

calem kneels before the Tree, hand over his heart.

"i need your help," he pleas. "my friend -- serena dupont -- she is going to die, and there is no one there to save her from her fate. Xerneas Cornucopion, Breath of All Living Things -- i know i am not strong enough to save her from this curse. but if it be your will, i willingly trade my life for hers. i lay myself here at your roots. let me be her sword and shield. i am not smart, or brave, or kind, but i am here, and i am ready."

calem leblanc frees the Tree of Life from its chains. on its back, he rides into battle. no one on earth has ever been more joyous to participate in a funeral procession.

calem arrives just in the nick of time. the tree's roots spread. Death, startled and in immense agony, aims its Oblivion Wing at you. a figure cased in pink light rushes in front of you and absorbs the blow. the world goes white.

you both survive, but not untouched.

the Tree saw a proper messenger in calem. in the moment he laid down his life, it gifted him the Boon of Life, knowing he would use it for the good of others. now, even as you make your way through your mid-twenties, you can already notice he doesn't age. when he touches you, it soothes your aches and pains. when he holds diantha's hands, her arthritis eases. once he dropped a kitchen knife on his foot -- the blood sparkled and dissipated, and the wound healed in minutes. when he's emotional, he glows. it would be funny if not for the reality of what it means for him. and for you, detective serena dupont, tasked by your superiors at interpol to apprehend abnormalities just like this. just like you.

your sword and shield took most of the blow, but he could not protect all of you. you carry the Kiss of Death and you know it. the discoloration slowly creeps out from your chest like spider veins. and as calem maintains his stupidly flawless complexion, your face shows age faster and faster compared to your untouched peers. your bones ache, and your mind struggles to keep up -- but most of all, your soul strains. death will come to collect its dues eventually. it isn't evil, or ill-intentioned, but simply natural order.

calem leblanc is working himself to the bone in order to defy fate a second time. he works a dayjob as a personal assistant for retired actress diantha diamandis. then he picks up dinner, rushes home, and spends every waking hour left researching remedies for the kiss of death. there isn't one. not yet. maybe it's still out there. maybe he's the remedy. maybe it's love, like in the fairytales. maybe life and death can only run from each other for so long before they meet in the middle.

but he's not giving up. not on this. not on you.

you can see in his face -- his blessing is a curse after all. but he'll never put that burden on you. he's always been selfless like that.

#mapleverse #calem leblanc #serena dupont #serena is zen's guy but idt they write her anymore

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datastate · 7 months ago

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send asks if we desire you say... hehehe

I ask if you've had a good day :> and also if you have any fun facts about the asunaro agents in mcfdau

SMILES SO WIDE... i did have a nice day, yes!!! got the chance to hang out & talk a bit with my lola + siblings so we're thriving ^_^ <3

as for mcfdau... i do!!! for reference, here are the asu-agents & their names! these will mostly be spoiler-free trivia bwehehe... excluding kai/michiru/hiyori here, because i don't want this to be too overwhelming x']

MINAMI:

— minami was an orphan who was very close with suzuki (kazumi's grandfather) throughout their teenage years together; they considered each other best friends, and though they drifted apart for a bit... after minami sustained an injury in the coast guard (post-war), still restless, he stayed with suzuki in hokkaido and inevitably got wrapped up in the yakuza conflicts that broke out leading up to the hades incident as the police force laid down pressure. & he still blames himself for, even after returning, not being close enough to recognize that suzuki's desire for power was. insatiable. and even then, he's laden with guilt over not being the one to finally stop him. — ...that aside! minami will often eat plain rice with teriyaki chicken. he does not dip his rice in teriyaki, nor does he put any other seasoning on it. like a weirdo. — despite his looks, he tends to prefer really slow instrumentals to anything else. when winding down (since he never enjoyed smoking & finds the company of other people stressful, there are too many social games...), he prefers drinking alone in his office with this sort of music playing. it keeps him from feeling overwhelmed. he still has muscle memory for some of sei's favorite songs on the kalimba...

OGASAWARA:

— ahhh i love her... she is the one in charge of dealing with most foreign affairs/trading in asunaro, as well as the gambling halls. she's very much someone who believes in carving your own path forward, even if it must be through underhanded means to gain the advantage. whereas myojin often finds a certain thrill in the roll of the dice (as it's the one thing he can't predict, unlike cards), ogasawara doesn't care much for gambling at all. everything can be rigged in her favor, and she'll do what she can to ensure as much; it's subtler than others, but she also craves large influence and aspires to be the next chairman. of course... due to her not being japanese, she is reluctant to relent anything with how easily that show of weakness or fateful misfortune can turn everything against her. for as casual as she appears, she's achingly aware of her position and takes the precautions she must to keep her balance in this mess of a world. — despite that all... she does let a few people close enough. usually, they are her subordinates - her captains - who were previously in charge of various foreign mafia in japan before [everything that led to the hades incident]; it was during this time that they had brought themselves together to survive, and that had formed something unshakeable. however, even with them, they aren't witness to her weaknesses -- even if they recognize it, she never speaks on it, and neither do they. — in any case! something lighter: she often enjoys having fruity desserts & treats, even if she can't eat as much of that now that she's older... however, she also enjoys coffee over tea! now that asunaro's been established, there's a bit more room for selfish frivolities like this and it keeps her carefree <3 (well... as long as she doesn't get the time to do that introspection) — also! i think if it weren't for her arthritis, she'd still be killing it with all sorts of instruments. one of the few gifts minami bought for her was a high-quality kutyapi. he may vehemently disregard her inclusion in hand with asunaro, but at least he tries when yakuza politics are aside? (it's complicated. to say the least. but it IS good quality)

CHEN:

— technically a subsidary family that grew into its own with ogasawara's support! chen was found recently after serving her sentence when her family (literal and yakuza) was caught up by the police; she was stuck in juvenile jail and had no place to go afterward, ending up in several terrible places before ogasawara really gave her & what was left of her (yakuza) family a place to belong... she really did save her. this certainly didn't facilitate any untold realizations about her sexuality or anything down the line that she outright refuses to linger any further on when it comes to just how unquestionably devoted she is to ogasawara. surely not. — but yes! this was genuinely an improvement when they weren't forced to support only themselves; of course, they still had to prove themselves to asunaro, but ogasawara kept that opening ready for her... and. even chen's subordinates began to realize how chen was slowly opening up. no longer in this survival mode, she was given the chance to truly be... human, not just their leader. of course, this isn't something spoken aloud either, but there's no denying she's more patient now. more understanding, where before something would've resulted in someone's execution, they're instead given expulsion or simply deal with another punishment (often isolation) instead. though she still fosters a ruthless mindset, she's certainly changed for the better. it's brought them new hope. — of course, for those first 20 or so years, she's so late on catching up with " how to interact with people " & it definitely shows. usually it creates little awkward moments between her and ogasawara, but she's said that it just makes chen cuter (O_O!); and even with her subordinates, there are some moments when they're meeting not solely with work in mind that she sort of lets her guard down & reveals just. how weird she is... and even though they're tentative to bring it up, it's only ever lightly humorous (well. their harsher words don't make it seem like it is, but that's just how they are! she does the same, with those serious-sounding threats <3) and it makes her feel. a bit more welcome and connected w her people.

MYOJIN:

— the myojin family is in (subtle) contest with the hiyoris! they're an allied branch of asunaro that's involved in information dealing, but it's due to the tension between these strongest families that they do not rule asunaro entirely (along with the yoshimoto family (with patriarch minami) & patriarch ogasawara having the force to keep them in check) ... sou hiyori is very irate that myojin can play the seniority card on him for this reason, and takes primary control of the branch now that patriarch hiyori is comatose :> — was a politician for the majority of his life and it shows, i fear... has that very polite/firm speaking pattern down and dislikes referring to himself in conversation much at all. he wants to focus on what you can do for him -- though he won't say as much! ^_^ — now that he doesn't have to exclusively wear suits, he dresses like a gay old asian man. because, much as i loathe to say it, he is a gay old asian man.

#I HOPE THESE ARE. ENTERTAINING IN A WAYYY... i really did just mean to keep it to non-serious stuff. but the lore. clenches fist #it's taken over aegahaha #ask #friends #slightlytoastedbagel #yttdposting #rikuto minami #ogasawara #chen #myojin #ocs #yttd ocs #mcfdau

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tailwindpets · 13 days ago

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Unleashing Mobility: A Dog Parent’s Guide to Leg Braces

When Lucy, a sprightly golden retriever, started limping after her daily game of fetch, her owner, Mark, was devastated. At just six years old, Lucy’s energy and love for adventure were infectious. A visit to the vet revealed a ligament strain, and Mark faced a choice: surgery or exploring alternatives like a dog leg brace. With the brace, Lucy regained her playful spirit without invasive procedures—a solution many dog parents aren’t aware of.

Why Consider a Dog Leg Brace?

Dog leg braces are more than just accessories; they’re mobility aids designed to support a dog’s joints, muscles, and tendons. They’re especially beneficial for conditions like arthritis, ligament injuries, or post-surgical recovery. Surprisingly, 20% of dogs over the age of one suffer from some form of joint-related issue, according to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS).

While surgery is often suggested, it can be costly, with procedures like TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) costing anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000. A custom canine leg brace, in comparison, ranges from $300 to $800, offering a cost-effective, non-invasive alternative for many conditions.

The Science Behind Canine Leg Braces

Dog leg braces work by stabilizing the affected area, reducing strain on injured ligaments or joints, and promoting healing. Advanced designs, like custom-molded braces, are made with lightweight, durable materials and tailored to fit the dog’s anatomy perfectly.

Braces for chronic issues like arthritis improve weight distribution across the leg, reducing pain during movement. Research from a 2019 veterinary biomechanics study found that dogs wearing properly fitted leg braces showed a 60% improvement in mobility within six weeks.

Choosing the Right Brace

Not all dog braces are created equal. There are three main types:

Off-the-shelf braces: Affordable and ready-made but lack a custom fit.

Semi-custom braces: Adjusted for size but not molded to the dog’s anatomy.

Custom braces: Designed specifically for the individual dog’s injury or condition.

Experts recommend consulting a veterinarian or orthopedic specialist to determine the best type for your pet. Custom braces may initially cost more but offer unparalleled comfort and effectiveness.

Hidden Benefits Most Pet Parents Overlook

Beyond healing, leg braces can prevent injuries in active dogs prone to ligament strains. They also help senior dogs maintain mobility, enhancing their quality of life. In some cases, braces delay the need for surgery, giving dogs more time to heal naturally.

Lucy’s Happy Ending

Mark’s decision to use a custom canine leg brace not only spared Lucy the ordeal of surgery but also preserved her playful nature. Today, Lucy runs, jumps, and fetches with the same enthusiasm she had before her injury—proving that a dog leg brace can be a game-changer for pets and their owners.

Sources:

American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS)

Veterinary Biomechanics Study, 2019

“Pet Surgery Costs and Alternatives,” PetMD

By choosing the right dog leg brace, you’re giving your furry friend the gift of mobility—and a chance to enjoy life to the fullest.

#dog braces #dog leg brace #dog leg braces #canine leg brace #canine leg braces

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copperproduct · 2 months ago

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Why Copper Bottles Make the Perfect Gift for Health-Conscious Individuals

When it comes to thoughtful gifting, few items combine utility, elegance, and wellness as seamlessly as a copper bottle. With growing awareness around sustainable living and holistic health, copper bottles have become an increasingly popular choice for health-conscious individuals. Here, we’ll explore why gifting a copper bottle could be the perfect choice for anyone prioritizing their health and well-being.

1. Health Benefits of Drinking Water from Copper Bottles

Copper bottles offer a unique way of naturally infusing water with beneficial copper ions. Storing water in a copper bottle overnight or for several hours allows a small quantity of copper to dissolve into the water, a process known as “oligodynamic effect.” This effect has been appreciated in Ayurvedic and holistic practices for centuries and provides several health benefits, including:

Boosting Immunity: Copper is known to ahave antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help strengthen the immune system.

Supporting Digestive Health: Drinking copper-enriched water can help improve digestion by killing harmful bacteria in the digestive tract.

Improving Joint Health: Copper’s anti-inflammatory properties can be particularly beneficial for those with arthritis or joint pain.

Promoting Skin Health: Copper’s antioxidant properties help combat free radicals, which can reduce signs of ageing and promote clearer, more radiant skin.

These health benefits copper bottles a unique gift choice for someone who values natural wellness.

2. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Choice

Unlike plastic bottles, copper bottles are eco-friendly, reusable, and have a significantly longer lifespan. By gifting a pure copper bottle, you are encouraging a move away from disposable plastics, supporting a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle. Health-conscious individuals are often environmentally conscious too, and this gift aligns with their values by reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices.

3. Natural Water Purifier

Copper has been used as a water purifier for centuries due to its antibacterial properties. It has the ability to eliminate harmful bacteria such as E. coli and S. aureus, making it a natural purifier. For those who are particular about drinking clean, chemical-free water, a copper bottle is an ideal gift. Unlike plastic or metal bottles that may alter the taste of water or leach harmful chemicals, copper only enhances the taste, providing a refreshing experience with every sip.

4. Aesthetic and Elegant Design

Copper bottles come in a variety of designs, from sleek modern finishes to traditional hammered patterns. They are visually striking and add a touch of elegance to any kitchen or dining setup. For those who enjoy high-quality, artisan-crafted items, a copper bottle is not only functional but also beautifully designed. This makes it an appealing gift for anyone who appreciates aesthetic appeal and unique design.

5. Easy to Maintain

Another reason copper bottles make a fantastic gift is that they are relatively easy to care for. With simple maintenance routines, such as cleaning with lemon juice or vinegar, the bottle stays looking like new. This is especially suitable for busy individuals who want something both health-conscious and low-maintenance.

6. Promotes a Hydration Habit

Gifting a copper bottle also helps cultivate a healthy hydration habit. Health-conscious individuals often pay close attention to their hydration, as it is essential for overall well-being. A dedicated bottle that not only stores water but also improves its quality can serve as a gentle reminder to stay hydrated throughout the day.

7. Symbol of Health and Wellness

Copper bottles have been used in traditional Indian and Ayurvedic practices for centuries as a symbol of health and holistic wellness. For those who appreciate gifts with meaning, a copper bottle represents more than just a water container; it is a connection to ancient health practices and a reminder to embrace natural living.

Conclusion

For anyone who prioritizes health, wellness, and sustainability, a copper bottle is more than just a practical item—it’s a meaningful, eco-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing gift that aligns with their lifestyle values. The health benefits, coupled with the natural appeal of copper and its environmental impact, make it a thoughtful present that will be appreciated for years to come. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or just as a token of appreciation, a copper bottle is a gift that truly keeps on giving.

#copper bottle #copper bottle gift set #copper bottle water benefits #500 ml copper bottle #500ml copper bottle #copper bottles 500ml #plain copper bottle #copper bottle price #copper bottle set #copper bottle cleaning powder #copper bottle uk #drinking from copper bottle #printed copper bottle #copper bottle 2 litre #pure copper bottle #copper bottle 1 ltr #copper bottle cleaner #copper bottles wholesale #copper bottle jug

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moeswriting · 3 months ago

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mine | 4. you saw me start to believe

pairing: young!no-outbreak!joel miller x f!reader

chapter summary: a moment of panic brings about some clarity for both you and joel

or, joel’s 23rd birthday, your first anniversary, and a moment between joel and his momma

Warnings: panic attack and imposter syndrome (reader); brief mentions of depression and parental neglect/abuse (reader and joel); A CALLBACK!!!! (if you can identify the callback, ten points to you); this writer is very aware that orange juice doesn’t actually help cure a cold, but she always grew up drinking it while she was sick, so it’s included in the story bc this writer isn’t going to be stopped by logic

word count: 5.5k

a/n: sorry it took me so long for this to get done :( i have early onset arthritis and with the weather changing, my wrists and knuckles have been bothering the fuck out of me, which makes me not wanna write (mostly cause it hurts), but i’ve been sitting on this for a while and i thought that i should just get it done so y’all can motivate me to write more haha. enjoy <3

series masterlist | last chapter -> | next chapter ->

read on ao3

Do you remember all the city lights on the water?

You saw me start to believe for the first time

✦ ✦ ✦

September 26, 1995

“Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear…”

A chorus of different names come out.

Essie exclaims, “Papi!”

Sarah screeches, “Daddy!”

And you simply say, “Joel,” as you sit his cake in front of him– chocolate cake with vanilla frosting, with a giant “Happy 23rd Birthday!” written out in your sloppy cake writing and three green candles above it. His eyes glow in the dark room, candle light reflected in them.

“Happy birthday to you!”

All three of you cheer as Joel blows out his candles, Sarah clapping excitedly at the prospect of cake being put in front of her soon.

“Happy birthday, baby,” you mutter in Joel’s ear and kiss the side of his head.

He hums and puts his hand out for the cake knife that you’d set down on the kitchen counter behind you. You reach and grab it, setting it in his palm.

“Thank you, sugar.” The love in his eyes is so obvious as his head turns to look up at you. You know he’s not just thanking you for the cake knife– but you can talk about it later.

“Mhm,” you kiss the top of his head, fresh from his shower this morning after a very eventful night without Sarah in the house. His curls smell like leather and brandy.

“Daddy, please, can we have cake now?”

Joel cuts into the cake because he knows his daughter’s impatience will always win, “Yes, baby.”

After Essie went home and Sarah had a bath to get the frosting she had smeared all over her cheeks off and put to bed, you and Joel are alone in his living room.

“I got you a present,” you tease with a smirk on your face.

You’ve been waiting a month to give him his gift. You had taken Sarah to the mall one afternoon to give Joel a break for a little bit (and also because you wanted to take her to Claire’s to get her even more hair accessories, but Joel didn’t need to know that at the time). You hadn’t really been looking for a gift for him, but you saw it in the display and you knew you had to get it for him.

“Oh, really?”

“Mhm.”

You rummage through his coat closet that you stashed his present in last week, knowing he doesn’t ever open it. You pull out a delicately wrapped box in dark green wrapping paper and a big purple bow on top.

“What did my beautiful girl get me?”

“Open and you’ll see, Miller.”

“Okay, okay,” he chuckles.

He takes the bow off the top and sticks it on the top of your head. You scrunch your nose at him, though he doesn’t look over– invested in opening your present.

When he gets the wrapping off of the box, he takes his pocket knife out and cuts through the haphazardly-placed packing tape you had used to close the box.

You watch as he flips his knife closed, careful to do it as far from you as possible, and sticks it back in his jeans. He steals a glance in your direction, eyebrows raised.

You smile and nod, “Open it.”

He nods in response and flips the flaps of the box open. His eyes go wide.

“Oh my god, sugar!”

Inside is a tan Carhartt duck coat, the same one he has been ogling at for months.

“Look inside the right pocket.”

You don’t have to see it to know what’s embroidered in the slick material. You’d stared at it for hours debating if it was too cheesy or if Joel would find it weird, but ultimately you had decided to do it. Now, you’re second guessing everything as you watch him shift the coat around in his lap to look where you had instructed him to.

His smile melts into a dopey grin when he gently opens the pocket.

“Oh, baby.”

In messy purple embroidery thread are the words, “the moment i knew”.

“What the fuck,” he lets out a huff of amusement, eyes soft and shiny.

You grab his hand and intertwine it with yours on your lap. “That day we met, y’know I didn’t know it at the time, but the moment I put my phone number in your pocket I knew this was gonna change me forever– you were gonna change me forever. I just thought I should memorialize it somehow, remind you how much I love you.”

“What the fuck?” He tugs on your hand and grabs your thigh, hoisting you into his lap. You can’t help the shriek that slips out of your mouth.

You’re straddling his hips, pressed close as he hooks his large hands around the bend of your knee and pulls you even tighter to his chest. His minty breath fans over your face.

“I love you,” he mutters, “You’re so thoughtful, baby. Thank you.”

You hum and give him a small peck on the lips, teeth clashing into his lightly because of the smiles on both of your faces.

He shakes his head. “No, seriously. Thank you for this whole day. You didn’ have to do all this.”

You gasp in mock exasperation, “Yes, I did! A boy only turns twenty-three once.”

He chuckles, giving your thighs a light squeeze, “I s'pose that’s true.”

“It is.” You emphasize your point with a light pat on his cheek.

His eyes search your face in a moment of quiet adoration. The smile on his lips makes his big, brown eyes squint around his crow’s feet.

It’s almost like you can’t help it, like the words spill out of your mouth before you can even think of them. “I love you.”

He presses his forehead against yours, “I love you too, sugar.”

✦ ✦ ✦

October 1995

Joel isn’t answering his phone. He was supposed to be here an hour ago to pick you up, but he isn’t answering his cell phone or his home phone. You’d left messages on his answering machine, but nothing. At this point, you’ve lost your reservations at the nice Italian restaurant that Joel had said he’d take you to and you were starting to get very worried.

What if Sarah was hurt? What if Joel was hurt? What if something happened to both of them?

Elaine was on a date with Robin and you had been ready for almost three hours now and you were anxious. It didn’t help that the brown, floral dress you had decided to wear tonight was a little tighter around your lungs than you had anticipated.

You needed to get out of this stupid claustrophobic dorm room.

So, in a dazed and anxious state, you scooped your heels off the ground, slipped them on your feet, and walked all the way to Joel’s apartment.

Your feet hurt and it’s sprinkling rain down onto your perfectly styled hair, but you don’t care. Something is wrong.

When you approach Joel’s door, you can hear screaming on the other side.

Fuck. You were about to walk into a murder.

You desperately shift around your purse for your key and jam it into the lock, letting yourself inside.

What you walk into is not a murder, but Joel holding and attempting to rock a screaming Sarah as she pounds her little fists into his shoulder. There are tears and snot streaming down her cheeks and nose, soaking into her pink and purple pajama dress.

You decide to pipe up. Despite the fact that this looks like a very vulnerable moment between the two, something is very wrong and you want to see if you can help, “Joel?”

His head whips to your voice and his eyebrows furrow for a second, before a look of recognition flashes across his face.

You can barely hear him over Sarah’s wails. “Oh no. Oh no! Our anniversary dinner! Baby, I am so, so sorry. I should’ve called you. I just haven’t been able to get Sarah to calm down and I guess I didn’ hear my phone ring and I am so sorry.”

You scrunch your nose at him, shaking your head, drops of water falling from your hair and onto your shoulders, “Don’t apologize. What’s going on?”

He closes his eyes and buries his head into Sarah’s shoulder with a heavy sigh, “She’s got the flu. Had to leave work to pick her up from school ‘cause she threw up. Took her to the doctor and he says she’s just got the flu and that it’ll go away in a few days, but she’s been hysterical ever since we got home.”

You close the door behind you and walk over to them determinedly, heels clicking on the hardwood flooring.

Running a hand down Sarah’s back reveals to you that she’s sweating so profusely that it’s soaking through and into the cotton material of her dress. Her muscles relax as your fingers glide down them and you begin to talk quietly in her ear as her sobs start to quiet slightly, “Hey Guppy, you sick?”

She nods, little lips molded into a deep pout.

“It hurts,” she hiccups and lets out another sob to emphasize her pain.

You rub at her shoulders, Joel still bouncing her slightly, “What hurts, baby?”

“My head,” she wails, pointing between her eyes with a shaking finger.

“Sinus headache,” you mutter to Joel, “You got decongestant medicine or a humidifier?”

He shakes his head shamefully. You can feel his guilt pouring out of his veins. He doesn’t have the materials to make her better, so he feels like a bad dad, which you know is utter bullshit.

“Keys?”

“For what, sugar?”

You give him a pointed look, “Gonna go get some stuff. I’ll be back. Just gotta borrow the truck.”

He starts to say your name, but you cut him off, “Keys.”

He gives in, because he’ll always give in for his girls. “My dresser.”

You nod at him and grab his keys, a fluffy pink keychain marking them as his. Sarah’s gift to him for his birthday last month that you had helped her pick out.

When you come back out, you kiss both of them on the sides of their heads and lay your temple on Joel’s. You watch his eyes flutter shut at the comfort of your closeness.

“While I’m gone, grab a washcloth from the bathroom and soak it in warm water, ring it out and then put it over her eyes and her nose. It should help with her discomfort and hopefully clear her sinuses up a little bit. If it starts to get cold, warm it up again.”

He nuzzles his temple against yours, “I’m sorry about our date. I could get Momma to come ov–”

“Don’t you dare finish that sentence. I don’t care how we spend our anniversary as long as I get to be with you. It’s an added bonus that we’ve got Guppy to keep us company.”

You kiss her chubby cheek and she lets out a short breath through her tears.

Backing away from his touch, you bring a hand up to caress his cheek, “I’ll be back soon. Don’t forget about the washcloth.”

He nods, eyes still closed.

“I love you.”

You run your thumb over his rough and stubbled cheekbone, “I love you too.”

Driving the truck in heels is a nightmare, but you make it back to the dorm with no incidents, change into something more comfortable, and grab your humidifier from your closet– a college essential for your dry-as-fuck dorm room.

You run to the nearest store and grab some medicine you’re sure will help, some orange juice, a big can of chicken noodle soup, and a movie.

By the time you get back, Sarah is no longer screaming or crying. Joel is sitting on the couch with Sarah in his lap, the back of her head on his chest with a washcloth laying over her eyes and her nose, just like you had instructed him.

You can tell she’s awake because she’s humming along to the radio that echoes through the kitchen and into the living room, her little bare feet moving back and forth with the music.

When Joel hears you come in, he gently picks Sarah off his lap and lays her down on the couch. She doesn’t even utter a word as he does so, too tired from her screaming to put an effort into clinging to her dad.

“Hey, how’s it going?”

He takes the bags from your hands, sighs, and starts the small trek to the kitchen, “Got her to calm down and take some pain relief medicine. Washcloth really helped– thank you, sugar.”

“Something my grandma used to do. She eat dinner?”

He shakes his head, guilt taking over his features again. He shoves the paper bags onto the counter and drops his chin to his chest.

“Hey–” you grab his cheeks and guide his eyes back up to yours– “It’s not your fault. It’s not easy doing this stuff all on your own– that’s why I’m here.”

His beautiful eyes shine in the dim lighting of the dark yellow bulbs above you. He’s always been very emotionally vulnerable with you, but you can tell that in this moment, he’s holding himself back. You lean forward to give him a light peck on his chapped lips.

You bump your forehead into his and look at him cross-eyed because of how close you are. “What’s going on in that head of yours?”

He sighs, “’S hard not to blame myself.”

You nuzzle your forehead against his, “I know, baby. But, it’s not your fault she’s sick. Flu’s been going around the grade school, got a couple teacher-friends there that are sick too. It’s just hitting her hard. Not your fault.”

His broad shoulders sink down as he explains his guilt even further, “She never gets sick, ever. ‘S why I don’t have any medicine or anythin’.”

“Don’t worry about it, I got some stuff. Got some chicken noodle soup– comfort food. Got us a movie to watch too. Should hopefully distract her a little bit.”

He nods, making your head bob up and down with his.

“You’re amazing, did you know that?”

You push him away from you and roll your eyes playfully, “Whatever.”

He’s got that look on his face again– the guilt– but it’s gone before you can blink.

“I heat up the soup, you talk to her?”

You nod.

Walking back into the living room brings you the hilarious sight of Sarah with her legs up in the air, laying back on the couch, with the washcloth covering her face. You can see the outline of her tiny nose poking the cloth into a peak.

“Sarah?”

“Yeah,” she mumbles, voice slightly muffled by the washcloth over her nose.

“Guess what movie I got?

She mumbles something akin to “what?” and slowly crosses her arms.

“Casper.”

You giggle as you watch Sarah sling the washcloth off her face and throw it across the room, a tired smile taking up her tiny lips.

“Really?”

Nodding, you walk over to her and place the back of your hand on her forehead. Definitely still ridiculously hot. “Yeah, baby, but you gotta take some medicine and eat before we start the movie, okay?”

She nods back to you and holds her arms out for you to pick her up, which you do with no hesitation. She leaves a light kiss on your shoulder and lays her head in the same spot, like she was preparing your shoulder for landing.

You get some medicine in her, though she gags a little as the cherry syrup hits her tongue, despite your guidance to plug her nose. While you do this, Joel heats up the soup on the stove and divides it into three bowls– two white ceramic bowls and one smaller, plastic bowl with Strawberry Shortcake on the bottom.

She eats slowly, picking out the pieces of celery and spooning them into Joel’s bowl. He doesn’t say anything as she does this. All he does is pick up his spoon and eat all the pieces she gives to him. You eat in a comforting silence.

When you’re all done eating, you snuggle up on the couch, Sarah in between the two of you. Her left hand is dedicated to squeezing yours every few minutes and her right hand holds Joel’s with a fierce grip. Holding her hand is hot and sweaty, but you do it anyway.

It’s nearing the end of the movie and Joel is fast asleep, head lolling on the back of the couch, mouth wide open. You almost laugh, but you’re scared you’re going to wake him up. He’s always so exhausted. You’ll wait until after you get Sarah to bed.

She moves around a little before she speaks up, eyes half-lidded and looking up at you. Her clammy hand lays on top of yours.

“Momma, I’m tired.”

You freeze. Oh.

You have to shake this off. You cannot let her see what that word just did to you.

“Yeah, baby. Let’s go to bed.”

Standing up, you pick her tiny body up. Joel snores away on the couch, oblivious to the world around him. Joel, wake up.

She tucks her face into your neck and lets out a pitiful little sigh. Her fingers cling to your shirt.

You put her to bed in a haze. She’s asleep before you ever enter her room, but you stay to make sure she settles as you lay her down in her pink sheets. You grab your humidifier from the kitchen and turn it on in her room. You use the color button to make it light up pink.

You come back to the living room and Joel is still fast asleep. Joel, wake up.

You attempt to shake him awake.

“Joel, you gotta get up– I can’t carry you to bed,” you sigh exasperatedly.

He grumbles something you can’t understand, sighs, and snuggles further into the couch cushion behind him.

“God damn it,” you mutter, pushing the heels of your palms into your eyes. It hurts, but it’s better than crying and you are not about to cry– especially not about what Sarah said. This is supposed to be a good thing. You just have to keep telling yourself that: this is a good thing.

“Joel–” you rustle his shoulder again– “You gotta get up, baby. You’re gonna hurt your back if you sleep out here.”

His chest rumbles with some gibberish about how he's “not ready yet,” and he bats an arm out at you to push you away.

You can feel the tears gathering in your eyes. No, no, no, this was not how tonight was supposed to go. You were supposed to just watch Casper and eat soup and go to sleep. You were not supposed to end the night with a panic attack.

“Fuck,” you whisper, sinking down to the floor next to his legs– back leaning on the couch. Your throat feels raw with the effort of keeping your emotions down.

A tear slips out and onto your cheek. No!

This is a good thing. This is a good thing. This is a good thing.

She’s going to hate you. You’re going to fuck this up and she’s going to hate you forever.

A sob wracks your body and up your throat. The bubble of emotions stuck there pops and the horrible sound tumbles out of your mouth.

You wrap your arms around your legs and pull them to your chest.

How could you do this to her? Make her think you were a good caretaker. Trick her into liking you enough to call you ‘mom’.

How could you do this to Joel? Manipulate him into letting you into their lives and fucking everything up for them.

You’re a horrible person.

You think you feel Joel stirring beside you, but you can’t face him, not after all you’ve done to him– will do to him.

Tears are soaking into your jeans and cooling your skin below them.

There’s more shuffling before Joel speaks up.

“Woah, woah, what’s wrong?”

You choke on your words, another sob falling from your lips, “I’m– I’m gonna fuck it up, Joel.”

“Fuck what up?”

His fingers comb through your hair, like he knows you like, but you pull away.

“Everything. Sarah.”

“Woah–” you feel him slip down off the couch and onto the floor with you, shoulder to shoulder– “Where the hell did this come from?”

“She called me ‘momma’ while you were asleep… and I liked it.”

This is a good thing.

“Oh, baby. That’s amazing!”

This is a good thing.

“I know! I know!”

“Then, why are you crying, sugar?”

“I don’t deserve it. I’m not good enough.”

His hand hovers over your knee before it falls back onto his thigh. He understands that you don’t want to be touched right now.

“Now, where in the hell did you get an idea like that?”

You hesitate. This is going to be it. As soon as you say this, Joel isn’t going to want anything to do with you. You debate even saying it at all.

This is a good thing.

You have to.

“I– I spent my whole childhood being a burden– being an afterthought. I took care of myself. And ever since I met you, I haven’t felt like that. You like me. Sarah likes me. But–”

No. Don’t do it. Don’t say it.

“I’m a bad person, Joel. I’m selfish and standoffish and I talk too much and I have a bad habit of thinking the worst and some days I can’t get out of bed or feed myself or take a shower and I’m a horrible person and I don’t deserve this. I don’t deserve Sarah thinking that highly of me ‘cause I’m not fit for this. I’m going to fuck her up and she’s going to spend the rest of her life like me because of me. I�� I don’t want to do what my dad did to me to her.”

Joel is silent. You can’t see what he’s thinking because your head is still stuck between your bent thighs, but you can feel him breathing next to you where you’re connected at the shoulder.

Say something.

He shifts next to you, knee bumping into your calf. He sighs.

“I always look for the worst in people,” he starts, mumbling, “I’m too stubborn– I never let anyone help me with anythin’, if I can help it. Some days, I can’t get out of bed either and I forget to feed myself all the time– there are days that I’m living off coffee alone and I don’t even realize it. I spend every day fightin’ the way my dad raised me, so that I can be gentle and kind to my baby girl. There are rare days where I don’t win. Do you think I’m a horrible person for all that?”

Your head whips up to look at him and you splutter, “No! No, god no.”

It’s the first time you’re looking at him since you started panicking. He’s sitting criss-cross-applesauce with his hands fidgeting in his lap. He’s looking forward, eyes blurry with the same tears that are streaking down his cheeks.

“I remember the first time I held Sarah in my arms. She looked so small, so fragile. I thought: there’s no way that I’m not going to ruin her. I’ve always been a bit too rough around the edges. It’s taken me a long time to realize that being scared is a good thing– means you care about them, means you want them to be safe. You just gotta realize that it’s okay to fuck up sometimes. They’ll forgive you and you’ll learn from it.”

He clears his throat, taking a moment to think before he speaks again.

“You are the least selfish person I’ve ever known. In fact, you’re kind to a fault. You’re a human with feelings and sometimes they get in the way of functioning like other people want you to and that isn’t your fault.”

He turns to look at you and wipes his cheek with the back of his palm.

You’ve seen Joel cry before, but this time feels different– like something in the tiny universe you’ve made for yourselves is shifting.

“You’ve been through so much. The fact that you can function at all is a testament to how amazing you are. That’s my girlfriend you’re insultin’. I don’t let people talk shit ‘bout her ‘cause she’s one of the best things that’s ever happened to me.”

A laughing sob slips from your mouth and your tears start to fall even faster. You can barely see him through the blurry mess covering your vision.

“Sugar, Sarah adores you. She talks about you all the time when you aren’t here, beggin’ me to make you come back home, and when you are here, she wants to spend every minute with you. Sarah would not be givin’ you a second glance if she didn’t like you or didn’t want you to be in her life. And, I’ll admit, I like havin’ you around a whole lot.”

As your heartbeat slows, you can’t help the small smile that takes over your lips.

“I like me being around too.”

He nods once, wiping his cheek again, “Good. If I could help it, you’d be here everyday.”

You shake your head at him in amusement.

“I don’t think I’d mind that.”

“Well, I should hope so– you are the mother of my child.” An invitation.

You lay your head back onto your knees, still looking at him, smile never fading.

“Yea, I guess I am.” You accept.

He lets out a sigh of relief and offers you his hand.

“You wanna talk about it more, or do you just wanna go to bed, baby?”

You take his hand, intertwining your fingers. It feels so right– it always has. From that very first time your hand brushed his on that fateful day that you met, it has always felt like it was meant to be. It has always scared you– if you’re honest, it still does– but, you’re looking at him now and all you can think is that you’d be okay spending the rest of your life with this man. You don’t think you’d want to spend it with anyone else. And maybe that’s naive or stupid, you are only 21 after all, but damn it, if it’s not the truth.

You squeeze his hand.

“Bed, please.”

✦ ✦ ✦

March 1996

“Where is tu dulce?”

It’s a very rare day where Joel isn’t working and Sarah is at school. He told his mom that he wanted to get the apartment deep-cleaned; she came over with a bucket of cleaning supplies and a weirdly large mop.

“The high school. She’s got meetings with the teacher she works with.”

She doesn’t look at him as she wipes down the kitchen counters with a sopping washcloth. “She’s so busy. I never see her.”

He’s on the floor, chest-deep in the oven, scrubbing as much grime as he can. He did the dirty jobs, Momma did the detailed jobs. “Me neither, Ma.”

She hums.

They go back to their humming. She’s got the country radio on, some ballad by Tim McGraw is playing softly as they both hum along. It reminds him of his childhood– watching his mom and dad dance in the kitchen late at night when they thought he was asleep. It was the happiest he had ever seen his dad, the most carefree.

“Momma?”

“¿Sí, toro?”

He pushes himself out of the oven and wipes his hand on a rag he has wrapped around one of his belt loops, plopping down onto the tiled floor with a huff. She continues her task dutifully, expression relaxed.

“I wanna ask her to marry me.”

Her head whips around to him, hand stilling on the counter, “Oh!”

Anxiety scratches at his throat. He continues, “I’ve been thinking about it for a while. She– well, Momma, she’s my best friend. I wanna spend the rest of my life with her.”

There’s a moment of silence between them. She stares at him with an almost crazed look in her eye. He’s scared of her not approving; he has always begged for his mother’s approval.

“And you’ve thought hard about this? Have you discussed this with her? Have you asked her if she wants to get married?”

He’s thirteen again, criss-cross-apple-sauce on the kitchen floor while his mom moves around the space, watching her dress twirl around her ankles. She lectures him about threatening Tommy’s bullies for the millionth time and he nods whenever she looks down at him with raised eyebrows.

“Yeah, Momma. Said she wanted to get married after graduation.”

She raises her eyebrows and gives him a pointed look, “You are both quite young.”

He squares his shoulders, straightening out his back. He knows this is what he wants to do. She will agree. He knows she will.

“We’ve been together a year and a half; she’s moving in with us at the end of the semester. I think it’s time.”

She lets the washcloth flop out of her hand so that she can cross her arms over her chest. “You’ve been married before, papi. That didn’t go very well.”

He rolls his eyes, “That was out of obligation. She didn’t have anywhere else to go.”

She breaks eye contact with him, toe tapping on the ground. “Well, clearly she did, or she wouldn't have left.”

“Momma.”

Her eyes trail back over to his, a mother’s force behind her gaze. “Papi.”

“She’s different.” Of this, he is sure. He’s always been sure about you.

“I know– I want you to be happy.”

He nods, “I know.”

She stares at him for a moment– eyebrows raised, arms crossed, toe tapping– before she speaks again, a sort of smug satisfaction taking over her features.

“Joel, you will give her my ring.”

Huh?

“Wh- what?”

Pointing one finger down at him, she smiles. “My ring. I want her to have it.”

The wedding band on his mother’s left ring finger was her mother’s before it was her’s. Joel’s maternal grandmother gave it to his dad the first time she had met him, insisting that he was the man for her daughter. Momma says it was fate, but Joel thinks maybe it was because she wasn’t married yet and her mother just wanted her out of the house. Whatever the case, Momma insisted that it was the most romantic gesture of all time. This ring is important to her– more important than Joel thinks he could ever really understand– but she wants to give it to you.

“Wait– are you sure?”

She grabs a dry dish towel off the counter and smacks him on the side of the head. It doesn’t hurt, maybe just his ego. “Do not question your mother.”

“Sorry, Momma.”

She lets out a proud “hmph”, and crosses her arms in front of her chest, towel dangling from her hand still– a silent threat.

“Thank you. That’ll mean a lot to her.”

That’s the understatement of the century. Joel knows how you feel about his mother– about mothers in general, but especially his own who has shown you motherly adoration that you never got for yourself. Essie is your mother, for all intents and purposes. This would mean the world to you.

She goes back to wiping the counters down with a newfound determination.

Joel pipes back up again, “Can I ask you somethin’?”

She brings the towel back down on the top of his head, without even giving him a glance. “Stupid question.”

“Sorry.”

She shakes her head at the counter and sighs, “Stop apologizing. Ask your question.”

“Should I ask her dad for permission?”

She pauses. Conflicting emotions flit over her face– confusion, then anger, then that same crazed look from earlier, and then nothing.

“Does she talk to him?”

Shaking his head, he replies, “No– can’t remember the last time she called him.”

She nods, decision made, “Then, no. The only people’s opinion that matters is hers and Sarah’s… and maybe her loud friend’s.”

He chuckles, “Elaine?”

“Yes, la pelirroja. She will have an opinion. She is very loud with her opinions.”

“Yes, she is,” he huffs, twirling the greasy rag in between his fingers. It coats his fingers in a black tar.

“I really love her.”

When he looks back to his mother, she’s looking down at him with a smile on her face.

“I know, papi.”

His vision flits to the rag, and back up to his mother again.

“I wanna make her happy.”

Her face softens, “You already do.”

He nods. He knows.

“When are you going to ask her?”

He shrugs. “I’m not sure.”Momma’s face lights up with what he can only describe as a girlish joy. “Oh, I have an idea.”

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douglaskmittleider · 10 months ago

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Encounter Common Health Problems In Older People With Douglas K

There are different kinds of investments. But today we are going to talk about more precious investments. Yes, we are talking about health. Health is a very important wealth we all have. Without good health value of everything is zero for the individual. We can’t buy good health in one day. It requires daily efforts to maintain good health. With age, our body becomes more susceptible to various health issues. However, with a good daily routine and healthy lifestyle, we can prevent or manage many common health problems. Here in this blog, we are going to discuss some common health issues faced by older people and how they can encounter these health issues.

This is a myth that older age means unwanted disease .This belief is wrong. It is possible to live a long and healthy life without succumbing to numerous ailments. No doubt that with age we may catch many diseases but with awareness, we can encounter these health issues. Let’s discuss some common health problems in older age with Douglas K Mittleider in this blog.

Chronic Disease

It is crucial to know these conditions to prevent and manage them effectively. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis can have a significant impact on our quality of life if left untreated. Don’t think that these diseases will affect you in the older age. If you adopt a good lifestyle then you can prevent these health issues. Now it's time to be aware of these chronic diseases and take proactive steps to address them.

Eye Care

Taking care of your eyes is very important to see the beauty of the world. As we age, sight issues may affect our lives. So let’s make it a priority to schedule regular eye checkups for years to come. By visiting an eye doctor regularly, we can prevent and treat various eye conditions that may arise with age. Let’s see the world with healthy eyes for many years.

Wrapping Up

If your all-over lifestyle is good throughout your life then older age diseases affect less on our body. Life is a beautiful gift given by god to humans. Take care of it and enjoy the life. Without good health is very difficult to enjoy life. Be energetic at every turn of life. Don't make the myth that older age means unwanted diseases, we can live for years without diseases if we give priority to our health. By prioritizing our health and making conscious efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle, we can significantly reduce the effects of aging on our bodies. Life is a precious gift and it is all up to us, how we want to use this gift. As we age, a healthy lifestyle and relaxed mind are the keys to happiness and disease-free life. Douglas K Mittleider suggests you live a happy and healthy life without worries.

Remember, good health is the key to enjoying all that life has to offer. So let's cherish this beautiful gift of life and make the most of it by staying healthy and happy for years to come. Take care of your body and mind daily and enjoy your life for many years. Strengthen your immune system with exercise and a healthy diet and reduce the chances of developing chronic illness.

Originally Posted At: douglaskmittleider.net

#douglaskmittleider #healthyfood #healthy lifestyle

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healthexpressshop · 1 year ago

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Vigor Vita CBD Gummies Reviews (Beware Of The SCAM) Is CBD Gummies Safe To Use?

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loveforpreserumsteve · 1 year ago

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Love Grows (demon!Bucky and pre-serum!Steve omegaverse au)

THE FOLLOWING MONDAY, Steve and Hodge were late.

"There you are! We were so worried!" Mrs. Erskine pulled the pair into her home. Smoothing her hand over Steve's hair like his mother would.

When Steve had first moved out on his own, he had joined another male omega, a non-binary omega, and a female beta. Dr. Erskine and his lovely wife, Greta, lived next door, and eventually became second parents to the younger neighbors. Helping out with emergencies such as: The Time Carol Almost Fell Off the Fire Escape Trying to Catch a Firefly and The Time Sam Almost Choked to Death on a Marshmallow. Dr. Abraham Erskine, he was German with a thick accent, he was a retired professor, and he wrote a series of adventure books for children that Greta illustrated.

Now, every month or so, Steve and Hodge had dinner with Abraham and Greta. They were far better cooks than Steve could ever hope to be, even if Greta gave him the same recipe, it never came out right. But the same happened with the cards his mother gave him, so maybe it was just Steve.

Greta asked, "How're you? How was the move? How do you like it so far? Have you met the neighbors? Are they nice?"

At the barrage of questions, Greta's dear husband asked, "You moved?"

"We're sub-letting," Hodge answered, toeing off his shoes.

"Oh?" Abraham opened a bottle of wine, "And where should we be sending the housewarming gift?"

"Stark Tower," Steve took a seat at the already set table.

CRASH!

Startled, Steve, Hodge, and Greta directed their attention to the older man. Concerned, Greta asked her husband, "Darling, are you alright?"

"Fine. I'm fine."

The answer was too quick though and Steve knew that he wasn't the only one who knew Abraham was lying. No one was going to call him out for it though. Instead, Hodge crouched so he could help clean up the mess from the shattered bottle of white wine. While Greta went to Abraham, Steve went to the hall closet for the broom.

"You nearly scared me to death," Greta chastised her beloved.

"I'm sorry, dear."

"Is your arthritis acting up?" Hodge asked, disposing of the larger pieces of the bottle.

"No," Abraham assured. "I was just surprised."

"Surprised?" Steve's brows furrowed, putting the broom away.

"Well," Abraham began cleaning his glasses, "Yes."

Hodge good-humoredly scoffed. Greta, on the other hand, was giving her spouse a stern look. The older betas clearly having a silent conversation. It reminded Steve of his parents. Reminded him of how his mom would look at his dad whenever a conversation was inappropriate for Steve to witness.

"I'm not sure if you're aware," Abraham started, avoiding Greta's looks. "But Stark Tower had a rather unpleasant reputation in the beginning."

Steve glanced over at Hodge, seeing if he had any idea what the older beta was going to say. Hodge looked just about as curious as Steve did.

"It doesn't have a bad reputation anymore," Hodge shrugged. "In fact, everyone seems to be dying to get in."

"It's still where the She-Witch of the S.S. performed her experiments, and where Agatha Harkness held her parties. Silvan Jules lived there too; and so did the serial killer, Cletus Kasady."

"Who was the She-Witch of the S.S.?" Hodge asked, and Steve asked, "Who was Silvan Jules?"

"The She-Witch of the S.S.," Abraham started while Greta busied herself with finishing the pasta, "Was Hilda von Hate. She killed several children in hopes of reanimating them for an unstoppable army of Hitler Youth."

"Lovely," Hodge commented, looking at the empty wine glass in front of him as though he wished Abraham hadn't dropped the bottle.

A shiver ran down Steve's spine, horrified and heartbroken for those poor children and their families.

"Silvan Jules practiced witchcraft. He made quite a splash by announcing that he had succeeded in summoning Satan. Apparently, he had a handful of hair and some black claws. Whether or not it was true, some people believed him. Enough people, at least, to form a mob that attacked – and nearly killed – him in the Stark Tower lobby."

"You're joking," Steve gaped, never having heard of anything like that happening.

"He's serious," Greta answered, setting the serving dish with pasta primavera on the table.

"I'm not sure how Howard Stark's son managed to turn the reputation around, but he did it and made it one of the most desired buildings to call home. Instead of, of course, what they used to call it, Stank Tower, where sensible people stayed away."

Looking over at his husband, Steve wasn't as thrilled about the upscale apartment as he had once been. After all, how could soil like that not stay sour?

"Oh, c'mon, Erskine," Hodge chuckled, trying to lighten the mood, "Awful things probably happen in every apartment now and then."

"Now and then, sure," Abraham agreed. Taking a bite of the pasta, "The point is, though, that at Stark Tower awful things happen a good deal more frequently than 'now and then.' Including –"

"Abraham," Greta warned, clearly wanting the conversation to end. It wasn't exactly dinner talk, anyway.

"No, no," Hodge encouraged the older man, "Including..."

"Including the pack of feral pups who had been found in the basement feasting on a dead infant."

For a moment, the room was silent. Abraham kept eating as though he hadn't described a nightmare. Greta stood and, at first, Steve felt the need to comfort her, but then she grabbed another bottle of pinot grigio. Popping the cork, she set forth to pour it for them. Standing beside her husband though, she flicked his ear. Clearly, unamused with the topic of discussion.

"But just because a building has bad things happen in it, doesn't make it bad," Greta tried to soothe the situation.

"I suppose," Abraham considered. "Perhaps it's simply the notoriety of the She-Witch that attracts a Silvan Jules, and his notoriety attracts an Agatha Harkness, and eventually it becomes a rallying place for people who are more prone than others to certain types of behavior. Or perhaps there are things we don't know yet – like a magnetic field or electrons or whatever – ways in which a place can quite literally be malign."

Steve finished his bite of pasta. "Maybe there are good houses too. Houses where people keep falling in love and getting married and having babies."

"And becoming stars," Hodge added.

"There probably are," Abraham agreed.

"It's the stinkers that get the publicity," Greta smiled.

"Exactly," Steve said while Abraham toasted, "May Stank Tower stay in the past and Stark Tower bring nothing short of prosperity."

"Hear, hear!" Hodge clinked his glass of white wine against Abraham's.

"Hear, hear!" Steve and Greta echoed.

And bring forth a healthy baby, Steve privately toasted to himself, smiling at his husband, clinking their glasses together.

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psalmonesermons · 2 years ago

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The Gifts of the Godhead Part 3g

The power gifts of the Holy Spirit continued : Faith and the Gifts of Healings

The Gift of Faith

Although we know that every believer is dealt the measure of faith sometimes when there is a specific need God gives us an extra injection of faith. This increased level of faith may only apply to the specific purpose and may last only until the conclusion of the matter. The person receiving the gift of faith might even be surprised to hear themselves say 'Yes, the Lord is going to do this...' and then think where did they get the strength to believe for this level of faith. It is very encouraging to the rest of the church to see/hear this gift in action as this gift will keep them holding on in faith to receive the desired outcome (e.g. a bigger church building).

Or what about the gift of faith to raise the dead (e.g. Lazarus). Most of us would need a huge injection of faith to perform that ministry.

Roger Price tells the story of a woman who died during the praise and worship at her local church. There was a doctor present who confirmed that there was no pulse. The elder leading the meeting although aware of the fact she had died asked the congregation to pray for her and someone called out "Lord bless her'. The life came back into her, and she came round and apologised for fainting! The elder leading the meeting received the gift of faith!

Sometimes a collective gift of faith can be manifest through the assembled congregation. A woman with severe post-natal depression was instantly set free and healed when a church collectively prayed for her.

The Lord still wants to operate His power gifts to meet the needs of His people let us be open to receive them for His glory!

The Gifts of Healings

Please notice that it is plural 'gifts' for there are many types of healing. There is such a thing as the healing of emotions and there is a need within the church for this type of ministry. People need to be healed from a wide range of conditions and sicknesses, arthritis, depression, cancer, allergies etc. etc.

It is interesting to note that in the gospels there were no instances recorded where Jesus was either unwilling or unable to heal whoever asked him.

The gifts of healings are often administered by the laying on of hands. This is a means of identification with the sick person.

It is good acknowledge the Lord as the great healer asking Him to impart healing and health to the afflicted person.

Healing can be administered in several ways including the laying on of hands, or through the anointing with oil or even transmitted by a piece of cloth.

Mark 6:12 And they went out and preached that men should repent.

13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.

James 5:14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:

15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up, and if he have committed sins, they shall have forgiven him.

The oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit who supplies the power for the gift of healing to take place. Every Christian has the right to call for the elders and that the elders must step out in faith and obedience to God's word.

Sometimes healing takes place when a single prayer of faith is made, and we just know that God has heard and granted our prayer. However there are other times when we must persist in prayer before healing will take place (pray like a hacking cough as the Greek says in one scripture!). As ever we need to be led by the Holy Spirit. When we are needing healing, we ought to pray for ourselves in the first instance. Then, if necessary, ask our family and friends to pray. If you are still sick, then call for the elders.

Matthew 8:14 And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever 15 And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them.

Gifts of healings are sometimes instantaneous but at other times takes place gradually. So patiently wait in faith if you have received prayer for healing!

If we give up in unbelief the gradual healing process will be stopped.

Acts 19:11 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul:

12 So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.

A healing might be termed as a miracle by being instantaneous or by being unusual in some respect.

A Christian I know felt led to pray over a handkerchief when visiting a relative who lived some distance away. A year or so later someone in the relative’s family took seriously ill. When he remembered the handkerchief, it was applied to the sick person’s body and a miraculous healing took place!

Often at a meeting where a word of knowledge is given for healing, it can be a prelude for general healing to take place.

Amen

Personal Prayer

Teaching partly adapted from the late R. Price (Chichester Christian Fellowship)

#christianity #bible study #bibletruth #blog post #blessings #psalmonesermons #faith #victory #power gifts of Holy Spirit #gifts of healings

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organic-india-green-tea · 2 years ago

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Benefits of Organic India Moringa Leaves

Introduction:

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness and inclination towards natural remedies and traditional healing practices. One such incredible gift from nature is the Organic India Moringa leaves. Moringa , commonly known as the "miracle tree," has gained worldwide recognition for its exceptional nutritional value and numerous health benefits. In this blog, we will explore the remarkable advantages of incorporating Organic India Moringa leaves into your daily routine.

Nutritional Powerhouse:

Organic India Moringa leaves are densely packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are an excellent source of vitamin A, C, E, and B-complex vitamins, providing a significant boost to your immune system. These leaves also contain essential minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, vital for maintaining healthy bodily functions. With a perfect balance of nutrients, Moringa leaves contribute to overall wellness and vitality.

Boosts Immune System:

A robust immune system is crucial for defending the body against infections and diseases. Organic India Moringa leaves have natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that strengthen the immune response. The high vitamin C content aids in the production of white blood cells, enhancing the body's ability to fight off pathogens. Regular consumption of Moringa leaves may help reduce the risk of various illnesses, keeping you healthy and resilient.

Supports Healthy Digestion:

Digestive health plays a vital role in overall well-being. Moringa leaves have been traditionally used to alleviate digestive disorders such as constipation, bloating, and indigestion. The leaves contain a significant amount of fiber, which promotes a healthy digestive system by regulating bowel movements and preventing constipation. Additionally, Moringa leaves possess anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, ensuring optimal digestion.

Enhances Energy Levels:

Organic India Moringa leaves are a fantastic natural energy booster. The rich nutrient profile, including iron and B-complex vitamins, aids in the production of red blood cells, which transport oxygen to all parts of the body. Increased oxygenation leads to improved energy levels and reduced fatigue. Incorporating Moringa leaves into your diet can provide sustained energy throughout the day without the harmful effects of caffeine or sugar-laden energy drinks.

Supports Brain Health:

Cognitive health is essential for maintaining mental clarity, focus, and memory. Organic India Moringa leaves contain potent antioxidants such as quercetin and kaempferol, which protect brain cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Studies have shown that these antioxidants may have neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Adding Moringa leaves to your diet may contribute to better brain health and cognitive function.

Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair:

Many beauty products claim to enhance skin and hair health, but Organic India Moringa leaves offer a natural solution. The leaves are rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals, preventing premature aging and promoting youthful-looking skin. Moringa leaves also contain essential amino acids and vitamins that nourish the hair follicles, resulting in stronger, shinier hair and preventing hair loss.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties:

Chronic inflammation is at the root of many diseases, including cardiovascular conditions, arthritis, and certain cancers. Organic India Moringa leaves contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds, such as isothiocyanates and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation in the body. By incorporating Moringa leaves into your diet, you can potentially alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions and promote overall wellness.

Regulates Blood Sugar Levels:

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. Organic India Moringa leaves have shown promising results in managing blood sugar levels. Studies suggest that the bioactive compounds present in Moringa leaves may help regulate glucose levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin resistance. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diabetes management plan.

Supports Cardiovascular Health:

Heart health is a top priority for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Organic India Moringa leaves contribute to cardiovascular well-being in multiple ways. They help lower cholesterol levels, specifically reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. Additionally, the leaves contain antioxidants that prevent the oxidation of cholesterol, which can lead to plaque formation in the arteries. By promoting healthy cholesterol levels and reducing oxidative stress, Moringa leaves support a healthy heart.

Aids Weight Management:

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall well-being and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Organic India Moringa leaves can be a valuable addition to a weight management plan. The leaves are low in calories and high in fiber, which helps create a feeling of fullness and reduces overeating. Additionally, Moringa leaves boost metabolism, allowing the body to efficiently convert food into energy. By incorporating Moringa leaves into a balanced diet, you can support your weight management goals.

Improves Eye Health:

The eyes are essential for our daily functioning, and protecting their health is paramount. Organic India Moringa leaves contain an abundance of vitamin A, beta-carotene, and zeaxanthin, which are essential nutrients for maintaining good vision. These nutrients help protect the eyes from oxidative stress, reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, and improve overall eye health. Regular consumption of Moringa leaves may help preserve eyesight and promote healthy vision.

Natural Detoxification:

Our bodies are constantly exposed to environmental toxins and pollutants, which can accumulate and negatively impact our health. Organic India Moringa leaves act as a natural detoxifier, aiding in the elimination of toxins from the body. The leaves contain compounds that support liver function, the body's primary detoxification organ. By including Moringa leaves in your diet, you can assist your body's natural detoxification processes and support overall wellness.

Conclusion:

Organic India Moringa leaves continue to impress with their extensive range of health benefits. From their anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties to their support for cardiovascular health, weight management, and eye health, Moringa leaves offer a holistic approach to well-being. Embracing this natural superfood can help you unlock the remarkable potential of nature and lead a healthier, more vibrant life. Experience the wonders of Organic India Moringa leaves and witness the positive impact they can have on your overall health and vitality.

#moringa #moringabenefits

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anshuman1314 · 2 years ago

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5 Days Basic Hatha Yoga Course

Basic Hatha Yoga Course

“Yoga exists in the world because everything is linked.” ― Desikashar

The beginning and end of Yoga are living your life in absolute awareness, with no space for ignorance. True Yoga is not just for the ancient Yogis who were seeking salvation from life and, in turn, ultimate liberation. The great meditators of the past have passed on the wisdom and skill of Yoga for humanity to go beyond their body, environment and time to live a happy and healthy life. More importantly, yoga retreats create the ultimate life that every individual wants to live, essentially becoming the creator of your destiny.

5 Days Basic Hatha Yoga Course At Mahamukti Yoga

Yoga is one of the blissful gifts presented by many saints and ancient yoga practitioners of India. It is started as a sequence of spiritual meditation and breathing exercises, but these days, it has become an essential part of people’s health and fitness and helps to cure many disorders and diseases effectively. There are different types of yoga practices, but Hatha yoga is one of the best-known and chosen branches of yoga.

Some studies reveal that hatha yoga helps get rid of anxiety and stress, support healthy living habits, improve emotional health, ease back and arthritis pain, and even help people quit alcohol & smoking. Mahamukti Yoga in Rishikesh has also created a package of 5 days Hatha Yoga Basic Course for people who want to enhance their exercise and knowledge of yoga. Hatha yoga practice during this five-day course involves breath, body, and mind, and its classes are usually 2 hours of breathing, yoga poses, and meditation.

#Yoga

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chatonne-rousse · 3 years ago

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Be Bold, Be Kind, Be Brave

This is one akuma whose intentions are good. After all, who couldn't use an extra dose of courage to overcome fear?

A superhero whose identity will be immediately revealed in the process, for one.

When an akuma causes several secrets to come to light all at once, our heroes will need to drum up some courage to face their fears - and each other.

But what's waiting after that looks like it might be a dream come true. It'll just take a bit of bravery and a lot of heart. Piece of cake.

***

Only eight days late and several dollars short, I’m wishing @jennagrinsoverml a happy belated birthday with this gift, written just for her. ILY, my friend!

Read it on Ao3 here.

***

Ladybug has to give Courageous some credit: she's a rarity, an akuma born of selfless means. A teenager who hadn't mustered the courage to stand up for a younger student being bullied at school, she'd been so ashamed, so angry with herself, that Hawkmoth had found an easy target to ply with honeyed words and promises.

Her power isn't even a terrible one. The beam of light she shoots from her right hand simply causes the person it strikes to relive the last encounter they had when their bravery failed them, this time with courage aplenty. It's admirable, really.

Admirable, but terrifying nonethless.

(The fear of Chat Noir finding out her identity is deep and dark and often floats to the surface of her nightmares with blue eyes and white hair and a drowned, ruined world. He cannot know. The cost is too high.)

"Whatever you do," she calls to her partner, frantic and scared, "don't let her hit you! Please, Chat!"

She hears the desperation in her own voice, and the look on his face conveys that he certainly does. He nods solemnly.

"I'll do my best, My Lady."

She nods back, and off they go into the fray.

For well over an hour, they fight Courageous through parks and plazas, sidewalks and thoroughfares. All around them, the people of Paris have squared their shoulders, lifted their chins, and braved conversations big and small with people only they could see.

Ladybug has to smile as she hears a young man confidently ask for a raise and watches his eyes light up at the response.

That smile fades when she remembers once again that the last time her courage had failed her was just as they were dismissed for lunch break, when she'd tried to invite Adrien to a movie that weekend. His eyes had been so kind as he'd waited for her to gather her words properly, and somehow that had just made it harder.

Then Lila had "accidentally" tripped and knocked into her, sending her to the floor. The memory of Adrien's hand reaching out to her to help her up, those same kind, patient eyes locked on hers, makes Ladybug's cheeks heat even now. But after she was upright again, after Lila had stalked off because no one seemed to care that she "probably would need surgery now because her arthritis would flare", Nino had reminded Adrien about the gig he was DJing on Friday and Alya had led her away to show her something on her phone.

Just like that, her opportunity was gone.

And that would be fine, honestly. Marinette was used to moments of stuttering and botched declarations when it came to Adrien.

But if she's hit by Courageous, Chat Noir - plus the citizens of Paris, Hawkmoth, everyone - will hear Ladybug try to ask Adrien Agreste on a date, and that will be a disaster of epic proportions.

"Ladybug, look out!"

Chat's body slams into hers, sending them rolling on the sidewalk just as a beam of magical light zips over their heads. In a flash, Chat Noir bundles her in his arms and vaults them to the rooftop above, making sure she's steady on her feet once they land.

"Thank you, Ki-" The words die in her throat when she sees over her partner's shoulder that Courageous has followed them.

Chat turns, his baton at the ready, while Ladybug reaches for her yo-yo, but neither is quick enough to stop the akuma's beam from finally finding one of its main targets.

"I'm sorry, Bug," he murmurs as his eyes glaze over.

Using her yo-yo as a spinning shield, Ladybug drags her partner behind the nearest chimney stack just as he begins to speak.

Panic sets in as her mind screams at her over the hum of her yo-yo, the akuma's laughter, her partner's voice.

I can't just leave him!

"Father, may I come in?"

Oh no, oh no, oh no. I can't hear this!

"Yes, Nathalie said she penciled me into your schedule for noon."

Nathalie?

Ladybug's gaze snaps to her partner, yo-yo still spinning to deflect beams of light. She's surprised to find Chat Noir's head bowed in deference, though his eyes shine with a confident gleam.

"I requested this appointment to ask you again if I could attend the event with my friends tomorrow evening. I've already completed my assignments for school and the homework from my Mandarin tutor."

Mandarin tutor? What?!

"Yes, Father, I'm aware that you don't care for Nino, but..."

The panicked scream in her mind gives up any attempt at coherence; by this point, it's no more than a muddled loop of Nathalie, Mandarin, Nino, Father.

Ladybug feints to the left to avoid being hit by the akuma as a mix of terror and adrenaline floods her system. She leaps forward, leaving Chat behind the chimney in the hope that she can engage the akuma just long enough to get her partner back and finally, finally finish this off.

She knows too much already. The cat has bolted straight out of the bag and is running loose on this rooftop beneath her feet, a distraction she can't handle right now.

On hero autopilot, she hurdles one beam after another, then tucks and rolls and pops up to roundhouse kick Courageous in the chest, sending her flying.

She hears the akuma's "oof" just as Chat Noir's jubilant voice rings out from behind the chimney.

"Thank you, Father! Thank you so much!"

She can hear his grin in those simple words, the sheer joy in being given permission to leave the house. Everyone in their class knows what a tight leash Gabriel Agreste keeps on his son. It breaks her heart every time she thinks of it. In fact, she's successfully fought for his release from that marble prison on more than one occasion! So yes, she'd already known with all the clues in place, but there was truly no mistaking it now: that was Adrien talking to his father.

Because Adrien is Chat Noir.

Her heart cracks. Oh, Chaton.

Suddenly, the akuma's progress in clambering to her feet is impeded by the whoosh and subsequent metallic thunk of Chat's overhand swing with his baton.

Relief floods her heart at the return of her partner. No matter who he is, Chat Noir is her other half, and Ladybug is never quite herself without him.

"Maybe we could use a little extra luck, My Lady!" Chat winks at her over his shoulder before facing the akuma again.

"Yes! Right! You bet!"

Get it together, Marinette, she thinks. Her face heats and she scampers away to the safety of the chimney stack where Chat was hidden to call for her lucky charm.

A red and black spotted can opener drops into her hands and she looks at it in confusion. "What am I supposed to do with this?" she grumbles, looking around frantically but seeing nothing to help her decipher how to use the lucky charm.

She takes a deep breath, peeks out from behind the bricks, and promptly takes a light beam to the face.

No, no, no, no!

It feels vaguely like having a water balloon popped on her head, a chill of sensation dripping down her spine and rippling through her nerves. It's a small mercy that being hit by an akuma rarely hurts physically. Her vision swims like a mirage in the desert, the familiar courtyard at school coalescing from vapor around her.

The last thing she sees is her partner's stricken face.

The last thing she hears is the akuma cackling.

"Heylo! Who! I mean," she takes a deep breath, a rush of confidence tingling along her nerves. "Hey, Adrien!" She smiles and gives him a little wave.

His grin takes her breath away. "Hi, Marinette! How are you?"

"I'm great!"

You can do it, you can do it!, her heart sings, and miraculously, her brain listens. Her smile turns coy. She taps her lip with her index finger. Her pulse pounds a bolstering tattoo in her ears. Go for it, girl!

"But I could be better."

Adrien's smile drops a fraction. "Are you okay? Is there something I can do?"

With another deep breath, she squares her shoulders and looks him in the eyes, her very cells imbued with a courage unparalleled even when she's wearing spots. She could do anything, anything, right now, but she has her mind set on accomplishing one thing and one thing only.

"You could join me for a movie on Saturday."

"I could...?" His brows furrow, but his grin grows slowly, bright but incredulous. "Are you asking me....?" He blinks, takes two shallow breaths. "Do you mean just the two of us?"

She nods decisively. "A date."

You did it. You did it! A veritable party erupts in the back of her mind, radiant relief spreading to her fingertips. It feels so good to finally break through her anxiety and fear and ask him that simple question that felt like an impossible task just a few hours ago.

Thankfully, he doesn't keep her waiting. The answer is in his eyes, anyway. "I would love to," he breathes, cheeks pink and smile dazzling.

"Really?" Marinette squeaks, and now it's his turn to nod.

"I'll be there even if I have to sneak out." Adrien reaches for her hand and gives it a little squeeze. "We'll talk about it later today, okay?"

She nods again, her chest so full of emotion she can barely breathe. Not only did she ask him, but he said yes!

Suddenly, blue sky fills her vision and she regains awareness to the sound of a scuffle on the other side of the chimney stack. Ladybug tentatively gets to her feet, reaching for her yo-yo and setting it spinning immediately. This time there's no peeking around the corner; she bursts from behind the bricks on the offensive, ready to finish the fight.

What she finds is Courageous struggling under Chat's baton, twisted up like a pretzel and unable to move for the steel-toed boot resting across her shoulders.

"Just in time, LB!" Chat crows triumphantly. He tosses her a bracelet emblazoned with the words Be Bold, Be Kind, Be Brave that currently pulses with Hawkmoth's dark energy.

In moments, the bracelet is broken, the akuma is freed and purified, and a confused teenager sits where Courageous was restrained a moment ago.

Chat docks his baton at his back and looks at his partner with the softest eyes she's ever seen, a tiny, equally soft smile playing at his lips.

Her heart sighs. Adrien. That's Adrien, and he knows.

The lucky charm sits heavy in her palm. Abject fear makes her hope against hope that she won't remember his identity when she casts her miraculous cure, just as her heart longs to hold on to the knowledge that her precious partner is the boy of her deepest desires, and maybe, maybe they really can have it all.

With a deep breath, she throws the unused can opener into the air, watching magical ladybugs and healing light burst forth and spread throughout the city. She waits, holding her breath, but when pink light swirls around them, the only affect it has is the healing of the twinge in her ankle from when she fell mid-fight.

She looks up, and her partner's eyes say it all.

He remembers, too.

Even as fear grips her heart, radiant joy shines from his face as his grin spreads. It scrunches his eyes behind the mask and pinkens his cheeks, delight seeming to glow from his pores. Ladybug has never seen her partner so happy. That elation is a balm to her soul, and she can't help but smile right along with him.

Ladybug turns to the akuma victim and holds out her hand, offering the bracelet back to her. "I really like that inscription" she says, pointing at the now-silver bracelet as the girl fixes it back on her wrist.

She smiles shyly at the two heroes. "I wish I had the courage to do more. I wish I was brave like you."

"We get scared sometimes, too. Everyone does," Ladybug starts, before her partner nudges her shoulder with his elbow.

"Speak for yourself, Bugaboo. This cat has no fear." Chat Noir throws her an exaggerated wink, and the girl laughs. "But real talk, anyone can be a hero in their own way. Little things, big stuff...you're stronger than you think, I promise. Cat's honor."

She nods. "Thank you for, you know, saving me and everything." Glancing at the street below, she gestures toward the edge of the roof. "Would it be too much trouble to get me back down there?"

"Not at all," Ladybug replies with a smile. Calling on her own courage, she looks at her partner and takes a deep breath. Here goes nothing, she thinks. "The usual spot in five? Or less, I guess, since it...doesn't matter now," she says with a shrug that she hopes looks nonchalant.

And there's that smile that shines like the summer sun. He gives her a jaunty salute. "I'll be there with bells on," he says, tapping the bell at his throat and making it jingle.

Ladybug just shakes her head and giggles.

A few minutes later, when she lands beside Chat Noir on their familiar rooftop, her earrings are beeping a frantic rhythm, signaling mere seconds before she detransforms. Instinct has her looking around the roof, ready to dart behind anything she can use to hide.

Before she can move, Chat steps toward her and quietly asks, "Marinette?"

Her transformation dissolves in a wave of pink light, and she hears him gasp as she catches Tikki gently in her palms. Marinette takes her time retrieving a macaron from her purse to feed her kwami, deliberately moving slowly in an attempt to get herself under control before she looks up at her partner. He knows, and he's thrilled, and that's amazing, but it feels like the entire world will change when their gazes finally meet, and she's just not ready yet.

"I, um...I didn't use my cataclysm, so I can stay transformed if you'd prefer, but..." he trails off.

There's something in his voice that finally makes her look at him. Just like when he talked to his father under the akuma's control, his head is bowed slightly, but instead of confidence, this time his eyes are bright with nervous hope.

Marinette understands both the nerves and the hope, and she'll joke with her partner until the end of time about who's in charge, but it feels wrong for either Chat or Adrien to look at her with uneasy deference.

And that's what she thinks of as courage wells in her chest. Her brave, steadfast partner, the other half of their unstoppable team, the boy with terrible timing who can still make her laugh, her best friend whom she loves so fiercely, should never feel he has to approach her in fear.

"Oh, Minou," she breathes. "Of course, go ahead. I...I already know."

He nods and stands a little straighter, and with a whisper and a flash of green, Chat's magical leather is replaced with denim and cotton poplin.

Predictably, her brain is short-circuiting, hollering in panic and terror, but even as her heart pounds wildly in her chest, it whispers quietly, gently, that this is her partner. Her silly kitty. Her dearest friend. He just happens to look like Adrien Agreste at the moment.

(Okay, this is going to take some getting used to.)

Tikki flies off to join Plagg nearby, while Marinette sits down on the roof with her knees pulled to her chest. She pats the space to her right and Adrien settles in cross-legged next to her.

He's the first to break the silence. "I'm sorry, Marinette. I shouldn't have gotten hit. I shouldn't have let you get hit. I know this wasn't what you wanted, and-"

"No, no, don't apologize," she interrupts, shaking her head. "It happens. It's...not the first time." Marinette sighs and closes her eyes, suddenly feeling a lot less courageous in the face of this world-bending change now that they're in their civilian clothes and it's Adrien apologizing to her. She presses her forehead to her knees and tries to imagine the boy beside her in magical leather and cat ears. It only helps a little, but it's enough. "We, um-" she pauses, licks her lips. "We have a lot to talk about. I just don't know if I'm ready for...all of it."

Adrien is silent for an uncomfortably long moment. "Yeah. We do." She hears him take a deep breath that shakes a bit on the exhale and turns her head a fraction to peek at him. His eyes are on the distant horizon. "I...think I understand some things now."

Abruptly, he turns toward her, a little smile tilting the corners of his mouth when he his eyes meet hers. Fear tells her to look away, but she tamps it down and holds his gaze. His smile widens.

"May I ask you something, Marinette?"

She nods.

"When you came up to me at lunch today, were you...planning to ask me on a date?"

Her pulse pounds in her ears. She could give in to fear, say no and brush it off like Chat had misheard her when she was under the akuma's spell. But suddenly her heartbeat seems to drum, "be bold, be kind, be brave," over and over again, and just as the smile begins to slip from his face, she finds the nerve to nod again.

Just like on the other rooftop a few minutes ago, his face lights up like the first rays of sun after a week of rain, shining splendid even in the early afternoon light.

"Am I--" he whispers, his breath hitching though his joy never dims, "Am I the boy?"

Be bold, be kind, be brave.

She calls on her Ladybug courage and nods once more.

His breath catches again and his eyes fill with tears that he brushes away quickly.

Clarity dawns all of a sudden, sweeping her fears to the corners of her mind to be dealt with later. She understood Chat Noir being happy to know his partner's identity, his excitement in finding out his Lady was his friend, too. But this is so much more. Beside her sits Adrien, wiping tears of joy from his eyes at the knowledge that Marinette is in love with him. This might just be a dream coming true on a random rooftop on a random Thursday afternoon.

"Chaton," she breathes, stretching her legs in front of her and placing a hand on his knee.

His hand covers hers, and she meets his gaze, words caught in her throat at the intensity in his eyes.

"I have a confession to make." He rubs the back of his neck with his free hand and takes a deep breath. "I think everyone in Paris knows that Chat Noir is in love with Ladybug. I...know you know." He shrugs as his smile turns a little helpless. "But no one knows that I might have a little tiny bit of a huge crush on Marinette Dupain-Cheng, too."

"Kid, don't lie to your girlfriend. You know very well that I knew, because I've been telling you forever!" Plagg calls from somewhere behind them. Tikki hushes him loudly.

"Okay, he's not wrong," Adrien says, huffing out a combination of a laugh and a sigh. I'm just very stupid, apparently."

"Hey, don't talk that way about my partner." Marinette bumps his shoulder with hers. "I have a teeny, tiny, huge crush on him, too, you know, and I don't appreciate your tone."

Adrien's surprised laugh rings out across the rooftop, filling her heart with so much love she can barely breathe with the force of it. She could listen to that laugh for the rest of her life. She hopes she'll have that chance.

He brushes tears from his eyes again as his laughter subsides, his grin still shining bright. "I'm so happy it's you, Marinette. Beyond happy." He turns her hand beneath his and threads his fingers through hers. "Honestly, there's no one else I would rather have as my partner."

"Me too, Minou," she murmurs, squeezing his hand lightly as incredulous joy sings through her veins.

Tikki's little voice pipes up nearby. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but it's almost time to go back to class."

Adrien lets go of her hand to fish for his phone and curses under his breath when he sees the time. "She's right, My Lady. Could we meet up this evening? I know we have, um...a lot of things to talk about."

Marinette nods. It feels like she's done a lot of that in the last few minutes.

When Adrien stands, he offers his hand to help her up. Just like in the courtyard at lunch, his eyes are patient and kind, but now they shine with something more. She lets him pull her to her feet, then wraps her arms around his waist in a tight hug.

His soft exhale at her ear as he melts against her makes her smile, scrunching up his white overshirt under her cheek. Her senses are filled with him, and she's surprised to realize that it's a feeling of comfort and safety instead of the usual panic.

Maybe loving Adrien and being loved in return will be easier than it seemed all this time. Her fears seem so silly when his arms are wrapped around her shoulders and his head rests on top of hers - a perfect fit.

Even the nightmarish terror of Chat Blanc is diminished. Adrien never told anyone her identity; he knew because he himself was Chat Noir, and there's no way in the world that Chat would hurt his Lady, nor would Adrien ever harm Marinette on purpose. She must have misunderstood. He must have misunderstood. He was an akuma, after all. She sighs into Adrien's shirt. She can never allow that terrible timeline to occur, but whatever happens after this, they'll face it together. Stronger. She'll make sure of it.

"Do you think my father will let me go to Nino's gig in real life?" he asks quietly.

The sad note in his voice breaks her heart. She squeezes him tighter.

"I don't know, Kitty. Do you think we'll be having a movie date on Saturday?"

He leans back abruptly, though his hands still grip her shoulders. "Of course! I'll be there if I have to sneak out!"

Marinette boops his nose, laughing when his eyes cross. "I think that's your answer for Friday night, too."

Suddenly she's in his arms again, this time lifted off the ground and spinning. She can't help but giggle.

"I knew I was in love with a genius!" he cries, jubilant. He sets her down and plants a kiss in the middle of her forehead before calling for Plagg to transform him.

When he turns his masked face back to her, it's like the world is different. She can easily see the brilliant green of Adrien's eyes in Chat's glowing sclerae. The blending of two of her favorite people into one extraordinary boy who - oh my goodness - just said he loves her gives her a shot of courage even before she suits up again.

"You missed, beau gosse."

His eyes widen comically. "I....what?"

Marinette smiles and calls for her transformation, then taps her lips with her gloved fingers. "You kissed me, but you missed."

The sly gleam in his eyes makes her breathing speed up.

"First of all, I would ask before I did that," Chat says, sticking out his thumb before raising his clawed index finger. "Second, I thought I'd save our first kiss for Saturday. Seems like a great way to end our first date, doesn't it?"

Our first date. A tingle runs down her spine. She likes the sound of that.

"I guess I can wait." Her smile turns cheeky. "But it'll be our third--"

"Ah, ah, ah," Chat cuts her off with a grin. He extends his thumb again. "First of all, I don't remember either of those."

Ladybug rolls her eyes, still smiling.

"And second," he says, his voice pitching lower and making her heart skip a beat, "it will be Marinette and Adrien's first kiss."

Oh, this boy, she thinks as her heart soars.

She bites her lip to keep from giggling. "I suppose you're right, even though we both know we're the same people."

Chat gives her a deadpan look. "Just let me have this, Bug."

She bursts into laughter and reaches for her yo-yo, delighting in watching a grin light her partner's face.

"I really am looking forward to Saturday," he says, unhooking his baton from his back. He reaches for her hand and gives it a gentle squeeze. "We'll talk about it later today, okay?"

She nods and watches him vault off toward home.

The wind against her face is exhilarating as she swings back to the bakery. It's amazing how one revelation seems to have changed everything. Even the zip of her yo-yo through the air sounds different to her ears now that she knows, now that he knows.

Marinette detransforms as she touches down on the terrace and sinks into her pink-striped chair while Tikki phases through the hatch into her room in search of food. A quick check of her phone tells her that she has ten minutes before she has to go back to school.

School. One more thing that's going to be different.

Before nerves can creep in, she thinks of Chat Noir and his beaming joy at learning the identity of his beloved partner. That was Adrien. She thinks of the comfort of being wrapped in Adrien's arms, his scent, his warmth. That was Chat Noir.

And when she sits down in class behind him in a few short minutes, that boy with the soft smile and shining eyes will look like Adrien, but now he's so much more.

Marinette stands up from her chair with a lighter heart than she can remember having in a long, long time. She's suddenly looking forward to the second half of the day, even more excited for Nino's event tomorrow night, and positively thrilled that she has a date with Adrien - who is Chat Noir! - on Saturday.

There's so much to experience, so many memories to be made. It feels a bit like a dream. It feels more than a bit scary. But it's going to be great.

It's just going to take a little courage.

She's got this.

#miraculous ladybug #ml fan fiction #identity reveal #adrien agreste #marinette dupain-cheng #ml fic #ml fanfic #adrienette #my writing #happy birthday jenna!#the real power move is posting this on an episode premiere day #thanks for reading it anyway

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